Malawi says it will review anti-gay laws in light of “public opinion”

Malawi was heavily criticised for sentencing a gay man and trans woman to 14 years' imprisonment last year

The Malawian Justice Minister has included the country’s anti-gay laws in a list of legislation he wants reviewed, saying the rules may not reflect “public opinion”.

Ephraim Chiume said: “In view of the sentiments from the general public and in response to public opinion regarding certain laws, the government wishes to announce to the Malawi nation that it is submitting the relevant laws and provisions of laws to the Law Commission for review.”

Section 153 of Malawi’s penal code currently prohibits “unnatural offences”. Section 156 concerns “public decency” and is used to punish gay acts and expel tourists who commit them from the country.

The decision to review the anti-gay parts of the penal code, as well as laws obliging the press to serve the interests of Malawians and protecting the government from legal action, comes after key aid announcements by the UK and the US.